Collaborative Archaeology and Community History in Brooklyn, Illinois

Since 2008, the Illinois State Archaeological Survey’s American Bottom Field Station has partnered with the Historical Society of Brooklyn, Illinois, to work towards the community’s heritage preservation goals.

Brooklyn, a small community on the Mississippi River, was settled by free and freedom-seeking African Americans in the 1830s and was historically significant as a stop on the Underground Railroad and as the first majority-Black incorporated town in the United States.

After experiencing population loss and economic and political marginalization in the 20th century, there has been a growing community interest in revitalizing the village through preservation, education, and engagement.

This presentation will discuss Brooklyn’s history; the past, present, and future of ISAS’s partnership with HSOBI; and introduce the many dedicated people contributing to this work.Registration is required to receive the WebEx link for this virtual event.